

KING'S SERVICE MEDAL HONOURS SELWYN COMMUNITY CHAMPION



Selwyn is shaped by the outstanding people in our community, and this month we recognise Mrs Agnes Abuel-Guda of Rolleston who was honoured with a Kings Service Medal in the King’s Birthday Honours list. Agnes has supported various community initiatives in Canterbury since 2008, been active with the South Island’s Filipino community and held o ces with Filipino and multiethnic non-profit organisations.
On Facebook, Mrs Abuel-Guda said she was “deeply honoured and truly humbled” to receive the King’s Service Medal for service to the Filipino community. “This is such a huge recognition for a Filipino like me to be awarded by His Majesty, The King. This is one, if not the highest and most prestigious honours I could receive in service in my entire life, and I accept it with a heart full of gratitude and awe. I am truly humbled to be entrusted with something of this magnitude. And what makes this even more meaningful is that New Zealand, my adoptive country, has recognised the work I have been called to do. To my adoptive home, Aotearoa, thank you for giving me the opportunity to grow, serve and contribute in a purposeful way.
She has served with the Philippine Society of Canterbury, Canterbury Philippines Assistance Group, Pinoy Cares Canterbury, the Ministry of Ethnic Communities, Selwyn Central Community Care Board, Selwyn Civil Defence Community Response Team, and Canterbury Ballers Club Trust.
She also co-established Hiraya Charitable Trust in 2025, founded Kalinga Women’s Support in 2023, mentored learner drivers, and volunteered with the Kabayan Filipino radio programme. Her service has been recognised by Christchurch City Council, Selwyn District Council and the Philippine Embassy.
"This King's Service Medal reminded me that our stories and our voices are not limitations but are powerful assets that shape more inclusive communities."


Mrs Agnes Abuel-Guda, who received a King’s Service Medal in the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours for service to the Filipino community, recently completed the Ethnic Women’s Leadership Training Programme.


Big Sleepout Page 2




A COLD NIGHT EXPECTED FOR A GOOD CAUSE
Councillor Sam Wilshire ispreparing to spend Wilshire ispreparing spend a night sleeping on cardboard in central night Christchurch to raise funds and awareness Christchurch to raise funds and awareness to raise to raise for people experiencing homelessness. for people experiencing homelessness. people experiencing homelessness. people experiencing homelessness. Cnr Sam istakingpart inThe BigSleepout2026, hosted by Christchurch City Mission on Thursday, August 13. The event asks community and business leaders to sleep rough for one night, giving a small glimpse of the discomfort and uncertaintyfacedbypeoplewithoutasafe,warm placetocallhome.
Christchurch has about 250 to 300 people who are currently homeless, and the number continuestoclimb.
“I wanted to be involved because housing insecurity and financial hardship are issues that affect people across Christchurch and Selwyn, and I believe we all have a role to play in helping,”hesays.
He hopes the event will help people better understand how difficult life can be for those whodonothavesecurehousing.
“Homelessness isn’t always visible, and many people experiencing hardship are doing their besttogetbydespitecircumstancesbeyondtheir control,” Sam says. “If sharing my experience encourages more empathy, understanding, and support for those in need, then it will have been worthwhile.”
While he is keeping an open mind about the nightitself,hesaysnoamountofpreparationcan trulyreplicatethechallengesfacedbythosewho sleep rough every night. “I want to be mentally prepared for the discomfort and use the opportunity to reflect on how fortunate many of usaretohaveasecurehome.”
Heisalsolearningmoreabouttheworkbeing donetosupportpeopleexperiencing


homelessness andsaysthe risingcostof livinghas placed significant pressureon many households.

“For some people, a job loss, illness, relationship breakdown, or unexpected expensecanquicklyleadtohousinginsecurity. Behindeverystatisticisaperson,afamily,ora young person facing real challenges, and our communities are stronger when we look after oneanother.”
Sam encourages anyone who can to support The Big Sleepout through a donation, sponsorship, or by helping spread awareness. Hesayspeoplecanalsosupportlocalcharities, donate goods, volunteer, or check in on someonewhomaybestruggling.
Sam hopes the money raised will provide practical support, including emergency accommodation, food assistance, access to support services, mental health support, and pathwaysintostablehousing.
He says the goal is not only to help people through immediate hardship, but also to support long-term solutions that help individualsandfamiliesrebuildtheirlives.
“I’m honoured to participate in The Big Sleepout 2026. Every contribution, no matter how large or small, helps make a positive impact.”
To sponsor Sam, visit sponsor visit bigsleepoutsouth.nz/cr bigsleepoutsouth.nz/cr bigsleepoutsouth.nz/cr--samuel samuel samuel samuel--wilshire. wilshire. wilshire.

Sam Wilshire.

SELWYN CENTRAL COMMUNITY CARE
By Margaret Holding, By Margaret Holding, Publicity O cer. Publicity O cer. Publicity O cer. Publicity O cer.
Caring Together, Growing Caring Growing Together
At Selwyn Central Community Care, our mission is simple—to ensure that everyone in our community feels supported, connected, and valued. Every day, our dedicated volunteers work alongside our team to provide practical assistance and a friendly face to people whoneeditmost.
From providing transport to medical appointments and delivering Meals on Wheels, to o ering companionship through home visits, community outings, and social programmes, we are committed to helping people maintain their independence
and wellbeing. Our services support older adults, people recovering from illness or injury, and others who may need a helping hand to stay connected with their community.
As a charitable organisation, we rely on the generosity of our volunteers, supporters, local businesses, and community members to continue delivering these essential services. One of the ways you can support our work is through our Vegetable Box Fundraiser. Filled with fresh, seasonal produce, every box purchased helps us raise valuable funds so we can continue supporting local people and ensuring that no oneisleftbehind.
Every contribution—whether it's volunteering, making a donation, purchasing a vegetable box, or simply spreading the word—helps strengthen our community and enables us to continue making a positive di erence across Selwyn.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who continues to support our work and help make Selwyn a caring, connected, and inclusive place forall.
For more information about For our services, or how you can our services, support Selwyn Central support Selwyn Central support Selwyn support Selwyn Community Care, please Community Care, please Community Care, please Community Care, please visit www.selwynccc.co.nz or visit www.selwynccc.co.nz or visit www.selwynccc.co.nz visit www.selwynccc.co.nz contact Yvonne Lamond on contact Yvonne Lamond on contact Yvonne Lamond on contact Yvonne Lamond on 027 313 1122. 027 1122.
JAPAN IN SPRING:
MORE THAN JUST CHERRY BLOSSOMS


By Shannell Stanbridge,
By Shannell Stanbridge, By Stanbridge, By Stanbridge, Travel and Cruise HQ. Travel and Cruise HQ.
When people think of Japan in spring, they often picture delicate cherry blossoms framingancienttemples.While the Sakura season is undeniably spectacular, it's only one chapter of what makes this remarkable country sounforgettable.
What continually surprises travellers is the contrast. In Tokyo, centuries-old shrines sit comfortably alongside futuristic skyscrapers, while tranquil gardens provide moments of calm just minutes from some of the busiest streets in the world. One day you might be learning the art of sushi-making from a master chef, and the next you're gliding across the countryside onabullettrain.
Beyond the cities, Japan reveals another side entirely.
Wander through bamboo forests in Kyoto, discover beautifullypreservedmountain villages with their distinctive thatched-roof homes, or watch the famous snow monkeys relaxing in steaming natural hot springs. Every region o ers its own unique scenery, traditionsandflavours.
Historyalsoplaysan important role in understanding modern Japan. A visit to Hiroshima is both moving and inspiring, whilethefloatingToriiGateon Miyajima Island and the breathtaking views of Mt Fuji remind visitors why Japan is considered one of the world's mostbeautifuldestinations.
Of course, spring adds an extra layer of magic. Parks, castles and riverbanks burst into

shades of pink and white as cherry blossoms bloom across the country, creating a celebration that locals eagerly anticipateeachyear.
For me, Japan isn't simply a destination to tick o a bucket list. It's a country that rewards curiosity, whether through its gracious hospitality, exceptional cuisine, rich cultural traditions or stunning natural landscapes. If you've ever dreamed of visiting Japan, spring o ers an extraordinary opportunity to experience one of the world's most captivating countriesatitsverybest. Formoreinformationabout Formoreinformationabout traveloptionspleasesee TravelandCruiseHQ
onthispage onthispage






SAVE THE DATE SAVE THE DATE
The Rolleston Residents Association is hosting a "2026 Meet the Candidates" for all candidates standing in the Selwyn and Te Tai Tonga electorates at 7.30pm on October 13 at Rolleston CommunityCentreStadium.
To register Candidates or their political party can email rollestonmeetthe candidates@gmail.com. The format of the meeting will be confirmed once the number of candidates attending the meetingisknown.
VOLUNTEERS WANTED VOLUNTEERS VOLUNTEERSWANTED WANTED
WanderSearch Canterbury
Charitable Trust a charity dedicated to protecting vulnerable individuals at risk ofgoingmissing.Weworkwith all ages and conditions such as Dementia, Neurodivergence andDisabilities.
The Trust is currently in need of volunteers in East Christchurch, Selwyn Region andSpreydonandsurrounds.
If you can spare a few hours

a week, visit wandersearch.nz or phone Emma on 03 907 0072 or emailemma@wandersearch.nz
DON DONDON DON’ ’’ ’T RELY ON AUTO T RELY ON AUTO T T LIGHTS LIGHTS LIGHTS LIGHTS
Turn your headlights on if you're out driving in awful weather – don't rely on auto lights if your vehicle hasthem.
Always turn your lights on when it’s raining. If your wipers are on your lights shouldbeontoo.
Newer vehicles have auto lights that turn on when it's dark, but you’ll often need to manually turn the headlights on in dim conditionsduringtheday(such as in bad weather). The automatic function often doesn't activate during daytime, even when visibility islow.
Use your headlights when it’s raining because many of us
have silver, grey, or white vehicles which easily blend into the road, grey sky, and water spray. Having your headlights on dipped activates your rear position lights. Together your lights make you much more visible to people behind you and people coming towardsyou.
CALL FOR ARTISTS CALL FOR ARTISTS CALL CALL
The Nut Point Centre invites visual artists to submit expressions of interest for the 23rd West Melton Annual Art Event. This prestigious exhibition features a judged Art Awards ceremony on Saturday, 13 February 2027. Applications close 5 November 2026 (or earlier if capacity is reached). Places are limited, so early applications are encouraged.
Toapplyemail: o ce@nutpoint.orgfor details.




MORTGAGE ADVISERS ARE LIKE BANKS
By Ginny Nelson, GMI Nelson, GMI Mortgage and Insurance Mortgage and Insurance Broker.
We are all a little different and youarefreetochoosewhowill suit you best to work with, but we should all have the same values – to give you good advice fit for purpose and to uphold the code of conduct we areallobligatedtoactunder.
Choosing your adviser is about relationships. You need to feel comfortable with your adviser and be happy to disclose all the information relevant to yourpersonalsituation.
It is important to be honest with yourself and your adviser to get the best possible outcome for your situation. Itmaybethatyou needalittle more time to get yourself mortgage ready and your advisercanhelpyouwiththat.
Debt consolidation can set you on the right path or a restructure of existing lending ifyou arewantingtopaydown yourmortgagefaster.
Different strokes for different folks—depending on what stage of life you are at. Establishing a good
CULTUREFEST RETURNS TO LINCOLN
CultureFest2026returnstotheLincolnEventCentreonSunday, September 13, bringing together food, music, performances and hands-onactivitiesfromculturesacrossSelwynandbeyond.
The family-friendly event celebrates the district’s cultural diversity, with local groups and residents sharing traditions, flavoursandentertainmentthroughouttheday.
EXPRESSIONS OF INTER EXPRESSIONS OF INTER EXPRESSIONS OF INTER EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST EST EST EST OPEN OPENOPEN
Cultural performers, activity providers, ethnic food vendors and stallholders are invited to take part and share their culture with the Selwyn community.Apply online at Apply online at online at Apply online at brnw.ch/Culturefest_2026.

relationship with an adviser can be an invaluable and stable support though all your lending transactions, whereas the contact your talked to last month in the bank has already movedon.









WINTER PROPERTY MAINTENANCE: SMALL JOBS NOW CAN SAVE BIG REPAIRS LATER
Winter is the perfect time to tackle a few simple maintenance jobs that can protect your home and property from costly damage.
For rural homeowners and lifestyle block owners, a little preventative maintenance now can save significant time and


expenselaterintheseason.
Start by clearing leaves and debris from gutters and downpipes to prevent blockages and overflowing water. Check your roof for loose or damaged tiles, iron or flashing, paying particular attention after periods of strongwind.
Trim back overhanging branches that could break during storms or heavy snow, and ensure paths, steps and driveways are free from moss and algae to reduce slipping hazards. Check gravel driveways for potholes and poor drainage, topping up metalwhereneededtoprevent furtherdamage.
Inspectfences,gatesanddecks for loose boards, rusting hardware or rotting timber, making repairs before wet weather causes further deterioration. On lifestyle properties, check boundary fences, gates and electric fencing to ensure stock remain securethroughoutwinter.
It's also a good time to inspect
exteriorpaintworkandsealany cracks around windows and doorstokeep outdraughtsand moisture. Check outdoor taps, water pipes and troughs for leaks,cleandrains sorainwater can flow freely, and inspect retaining walls for signs of movementorerosion.
Take time to inspect sheds, garages and outdoor storage areas for water ingress, damaged cladding or loose roofing. Keeping lawns mown, removing fallen branches and storing equipment under cover will help keep your property safe,tidyandreadyforspring.
Finally, service heat pumps, wood burners and chimneys, test smoke alarms, and keep firewood stacked o the groundinadry,well-ventilated location.
A few hours of preventative maintenance this winter can help keep your home warmer, safer and in better condition throughout the colder months, while reducing the likelihood of expensive repairs when springarrives.














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The first thing to check is your password. Make sure Caps Lock isn't on, try typing your password manually instead of relying on autofill, and if you've forgotten it, use the "Forgot Password" option to reset it. If you've entered the wrong password several times, your account may be temporarily locked. Most email providers will unlock it after 15 to 30 minutes, or you can follow their account recovery process.
Sometimes the problem isn't your account at all. An outdated browser or email app can prevent you from signing in. Try another browser, install any available updates, or remove and re-add your email account if you're using an email app.
If you use two-factor authentication (2FA), make sure your phone can receive verification codes and that your authenticator app is working correctly. Finally, if none of these steps work, your account may have been compromised. Recover your account as soon as possible, update your password, and review your security settings.
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Call the Geeks on 0800 424 335 and we'll help get you back into your inbox.

Selwyn is one of the fastest-growing districts in New Zealand. More families are choosing to call communities like Rolleston, Lincoln and Darfield home, and with that growth comes a simple challenge: creating the jobs and opportunities that allow people to build a futurehere.
One of the best ways we do that is by selling more of what New Zealand produces to the world.
WhilenoteveryoneinSelwynworksdirectlyin exporting, many jobs across our district depend on it. Export earnings support employment in transport, logistics, engineering, manufacturing and many other localbusinesses.
That's why our recently announced Next Billion Customers trade policy is important for Selwyn. It commits a re-elected National Government to pursuing trade negotiations with seven priority markets while making it easier for exporters to enter new markets and navigatetradebarriers.
In Selwyn, trade is closely connected to the local economy. From dairy products processed
at Synlait's Dunsandel facility to seeds, grains and other agricultural products grown throughout the district, many of the goods produced here are destined for customers overseas. Expanding market access gives those businesses greater confidence to invest, grow andemploylocalpeople.
Selwyn combines a strong agricultural base alongside research expertise in Lincoln. We produce high-quality goods that are in demand around the world, and access to overseas markets helps local businesses keep building on thatsuccess.
For acountrythesizeofNewZealand, exporting has always been an important part of economic growth. The more customers our businesses can reach, the more opportunities there are for investment,jobcreationandhigherincomes. Expanding access to new markets is one of the most practical ways to support higher incomes andgreateropportunityacrossSelwyn.
As always, my o ce is open Monday to As always, my o ce is open Monday to As o ce is open Monday to As o ce is open Monday to Friday, from 10am to 4pm. Friday, from 10am to 4pm. Friday, from 10am to 4pm. Friday, from 10am to 4pm.
Feel free to Feel drop by drop dropby by anytime if you need need assistance assistance or have any questions. or questions.
LOCAL TECHNICIAN NAMED JOHN DEERE FINALIST
Local lad James Doherty has been announced as one of eightfinalistsintheAgriculture & Turf Service Technician of the Year category for the John Deere Technicians 2026 Award forNewZealandandAustralia.
Afarmkidfromourlocal area, JamesgrewupwithJohnDeere tractors, and after completing work experience with his local John Deere dealership, Drummond & Etheridge (D&E), hispathwasset.
Today, the 26-year-old is a qualified Service Technician, known for his ‘exceptional product knowledge’ and ‘outstandingattitude’.
keen on 8R Tractors and X9 series Combine Harvesters, but it’sthemachinehehasathome that will always have his heart: “I have to stick to my guns and saymyold2850(utilitytractor) wins.”
Steve Hadler, Drummond & Etheridge Group Aftermarket Manager, says, “James embodies our commitment to customer satisfaction and the uptime of John Deere products. For D&E, investing in technician development is vital for our customers’future. Itake immense pride in seeing James recognised on a national level for his dedication and contributions, wholeheartedly congratulating him onthiswell -deservedachievement.”

James Doherty will be one of several technicians representing New Zealand at the John Deere Technician of the Year Awards gala event in Brisbane on September 3, 2026.
Asked whether he has a favourite John Deere machine, James says he’s particularly theYear.

A total of 30 regional finalists were named in five award categories, including Agriculture and Turf Service Technician of the Year, Construction and Forestry Service Technician of the Year, Parts Technician of the Year, Service Apprentice of the Year and Parts Apprentice of
John Deere Australia and New Zealand Managing Director, Luke Chandler, says the exceptional quality of this year's finalists reflected the commitment dealers continue to make in developing highly skilled professionals who supportcustomerseveryday.
“What stood out this year was notonlythetechnicalexpertise on display, but the clear connection between that expertise and the results being delivered to customers when it matters most,” Mr Chandler says.


SELWYN’S FUTURE IS OUR DECISION TO MAKE
For many people in Rolleston, local government isn'tsomethingyouthinkabouteveryday.It'sthe roads you travel on, the parks and sports fields your family uses, the drinking water in your home,and the infrastructure that supportsone of NewZealand'sfastest-growingcommunities.
But right now, decisions are being considered thatcouldshapehowthoseservicesaredelivered fordecadestocome.
Across New Zealand, the Government is reviewing the future of local government. The Resource Management Act is being replaced, the role of regional councils is under review, and there is growing discussion about how councils can best serve communities as they continue to grow and change. As these reforms progress, the role of local government is changing. Some responsibilities that are currently delivered by regional councils may be delivered di erently in the future. Before deciding what, any new structure should look like, it's important we understand what functions local government will be responsible for and how they can best serveourcommunities.
That raises an important question: what should local government look like in Canterbury's future?
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has said these decisions should be led by communities themselves,ratherthandictatedfromWellington. Icouldn'tagreemore.
For Selwyn, this is our opportunity to have For Selwyn, this is our opportunity to have Selwyn, this Selwyn, this a say before decisions are made for us. a say before decisions are made for us. a say before decisions for a say before decisions for Few communities understand growth better than Rolleston. Once a small rural township, Rolleston has become one of the country's fastest-growing urban centres and is expected to achieve city status within the next decade. The growth we have experienced hasbrought newopportunities, jobs, facilities and investment, but it has also increased demand for roads, public transport, water infrastructure, parks, community facilities andhousing.
Those pressures aren't unique to Rolleston. They are being experienced across Canterbury, and many of the challenges we face don't stop at districtboundaries.
Our transport networks connect communities across the region. Our waterways flow across council boundaries. Decisions about housing, economic development, environmental management and infrastructure increasingly
require councils to work together. Whatever the future structure, collaboration will remain important.
Thatdoesn't mean local communitiesshould lose their voice. In fact, preserving strong local representation is one of the most consistent messageswehearfromresidents.
Earlier this year, more than 6,900 people took part in our 60 Seconds for Selwyn survey. They told us that a ordable rates, reliable core services and strong local decision-making matter most to them. That feedback has helped shape thenextstageofthisconversation.
We are now asking residents to consider We are now asking three threethree possible options possible options possible possible for Selwyn's future. for Selwyn's future. for Selwyn's future. for Selwyn's future.
A Selwyn Unitary Authority, a Mid Canterbury Unitary Authority involving Selwyn and Ashburton, or a larger Canterbury-wide unitary authority that includes Selwyn, Christchurch, WaimakaririandHurunui.
Importantly, Council has not chosen a preferred option. We want to hear from our communities first.
Eachoptioncomeswith opportunities,challenges and trade-o s. They di er in how local representation is organised, how services are delivered and how decisions are made. That's why community input is so important before Council considers its next steps. I also believe this discussion shouldn't become a debate about winners and losers. Whether we ultimately stand alone or work more closely with neighbouring councils, Canterbury's future will depend on strong partnerships, practical collaboration and a shared commitment to delivering the best outcomes for our communities.
Selwyn is no longer simply a district on Christchurch's edge. We are a major growth district, a significant contributor to Canterbury's economy, and home to communities with ambitiousplansforthefuture.
That's why I encourage Rolleston residents to take a few minutes to learn about the options, consider how they could shape our future, and havetheirsay.
The future of Selwyn shouldn't be decided somewhere else. It should be shaped by the people who live here,work here and areinvested inthefutureofthisdistrict.
This is our opportunity to help shape that is our shape that future together. future futuretogether. together. future together.
To find out more and take the survey visit: www.selwyn.govt.nz/headstart
Before council forms a proposal, we need to hear directly from the people of Selwyn.
Op on 1: Selwyn Unitary Authority
Selwyn District becomes a unitary authority. This means in addition to district council functions (e.g. roading and water) Selwyn would also be responsible for some regional functions in the area. This option would require Selwyn to work with other unitary councils to perform all regional functions currently managed by Environment Canterbury.
What works in its favour: its favour:
• In the ‘60 seconds for Selwyn’ survey the community support this option from the start, with 34% of the 6,900 responses wanting us to explore Selwyn becoming a unitary authority.
• Strong local voice and identity are maintained, including rural communities.
• Lowest transition costs and least disruption to existing services.
• Assets, debt and revenue would remain with Selwyn unless specifically transferred.
• Local priorities and budgets would continue to be determined by Selwyn.
• Decisions on how we manage growth stay with Selwyn, without competing priorities from other districts.
Challenges and risks: Challenges and risks:
• Selwyn will need to bring in some skills and expertise to deliver some of the functions Environment Canterbury currently provides
• Selwyn would need to rely more on agreements with other unitary councils to deliver some regional functions, perhaps things like public transport or river catchment management.
• This option depends on Selwyn partnering with another council to submit our proposal. Without putting our proposal together with another council’s proposal, this option won't meet Head Start requirements.
Op on 2: Mid Canterbury Unitary Authority (Selwyn & Ashburton)
Selwyn and Ashburton districts combine to form a single unitary authority, taking on some of Environment Canterbury's current functions across both areas. This option would require the new council to work with other unitary councils to perform some regional functions currently managed by Environment Canterbury. What works in its favour: its favour:
• Selwyn and Ashburton stay whole.
• District and regional functions would sit within one organisation across both districts.
• Rural communities maintain a high level of representation.
• Selwyn and Ashburton share similar rural and economic interests, which may mean decisions and investments are aligned.
Challenges and risks: Challenges and risks: Challenges and risks: Challenges and risks:
• Local representation would need to reflect both districts.
• The cost of merging the two councils into one unitary authority is not yet known.
• Existing policies, systems and processes across both councils would need to be standardised, which will take time and resource.
• Selwyn and Ashburton would need to rely more on agreements with other unitary councils to deliver some regional functions, perhaps things like public transport or river catchment management.
Op on 3: Selwyn, Christchurch, Waimakariri & Hurunui Unitary Authority
A unitary authority bringing together Selwyn, Christchurch, Waimakariri and Hurunui into one central unitary authority. This option may require the new unitary to work with other unitary councils to perform all regional functions currently managed by Environment Canterbury.
What works in its favour: its favour:
• No district or rural area is split between di erent authorities. Selwyn, Christchurch, Waimakariri and Hurunui, stay whole.
• Christchurch, Selwyn and Waimakariri are all growing at a similar rate, so the focus on things like infrastructure and housing might be similar.
• One organisation would be responsible for local and regional functions across the four districts, which supports planning across the area including the shared Waimakariri River catchment.
Challenges and risks: Challenges and risks:
• Representation arrangements would need to ensure local communities continue to have a voice; community or local boards may require delegated decision-making and budget.
• Existing assets, debt and liabilities would need to be combined.
• Growth management may be challenging amid competing priorities across the four districts.
• Combining four district councils will be complex. Existing policies, systems and processes across all councils would need to be standardised, which will take time and resource.

ROLLESTON AND DISTRICTS LIONS CLUB
By Val Knowles. Val ValKnowles. Knowles.
On June 26, we held our change-over night. The theme forthenightwas‘GolfPlayers’. We were encouraged to dress up using that theme or any other dress up or not dress up at all. After all the toasts, our president, Mike Cousins, presented the awards and certificates of service. This was followedbyadeliciousmealby chefNelsonChing.PDGRichard Norris then installed the incoming officers for the next year.
ROLLESTON GARDEN CLUB
By Jill Webb. By Jill Webb.
At our first board meeting, we discussed all the projects comingupbeforetheChristmas Parade. Working with the Selwyn council and Corde on closing roads and permission for Lions to control the crowd. There are other projects like the fireworks in November, speech makers contestandacamp-a-thon.
Using a golf theme each member was given a golf club score card and a practise golf ball and lastly our new president, Tony Condon, gave us a speech about what he hoped we would all do in the coming year. With music and lots of laughter, it was a very successful and enjoyablenight.
To find out more about To find out more about To find out To find out the club, email the club, email rollestonlionsclub@ rollestonlionsclub@ rollestonlionsclub@ rollestonlionsclub@
ROLLESTON FLORAL ART
By Carol Rains. By Carol Rains.
By Carol By Carol WemetinJuneatBroadfieldsHall,wheremembershadfunatthe
assortment of crafts. Rolleston News pages were made into gift bags, some made winter wreaths and some made Midilino stick swirls. Our next meeting is in August at Broadfields creating Spring Simplicity with some materials being provided to members.
For more information For contact Carol Rains 027 224 1033 or Carol 027 224 1033 or ctrains1871@gmail.com. ctrains1871@gmail.com.
ROLLESTON MEN'S SHED
By Sandy Ferguson. By Sandy Ferguson.
An item taking up some room in the workshop is a garden shed being assembled. Depending on the design, assembly of that size of shed can range from half a morning toafewweeksofmornings. A range of toys have been madefor saleincludingtrucks, ball games, cars and sit-on planesastrikes.

Chest of draws freshly fixed top and edge.
Chairs and tables are always being worked on and usually have vicesonthemtoholdthemasgluedries.A small chestofdraws haditstabletopdamagededgefixed.
Electrical appliances continue to appear and the newer they are, the harder to dismantle and fix due to bad design. The important items as always are a cuppa and biscuit and the companionship that goes with it. The Shed is open Saturday, Monday,WednesdayandThursday,9amuntilmid-day. Visit our website for more info: Visit our website for more info: Visit website for Visit website for rollestonshed.wordpress.com rollestonshed.wordpress.com rollestonshed.wordpress.com rollestonshed.wordpress.com or email rollestonshed@gmail.com or rollestonshed@gmail.com
Has winter started? The rain was needed, but just not so many days in a row. Frosts of sorts came after this so maybe those bugs that we don't want are gone from the gardens. We were lucky we never had the floods that others had, which ruinedthegroundforawhile.
At our July meeting, we had an interesting lady from the Curators Garden in Christchurch. She spoke about their garden produce, which they use in the Curators House restaurant. The garden provides fresh veg, herbs, fruit and edible flowers. She talked
By Ann Barber.
about how they rotate planting, mulching, covering plants from predators, bugs etc.
Rosemary has so many di erent varieties, and the plants that have a lemony smell and taste. A new type of mulch food for the garden is wool pallets. Pea straw around brassicas, which are great should be put in garden now along with broad beans. If you grew runner beans on a frame, cut them down when finished andtheywillgrowagain.
Other things to do in garden at this time, if it's not too wet, will be to pull an odd weed or
two and any pruning not done, likeroses,dothemnow. Look out for the catalogues to choose your seeds, look for something new to try in the spring and summer planting. It’s always nice to grow your ownseeds.
Our August AGM will have some good ideas for another yeartokeepusinterested.
TheSeptember speaker isfrom Red Zone, so come along and join our friendly gardening group.
For more information, For information,
or Anne on
or
ROLLESTON PROBUS
The members continue to be activebygettingoutandabout to explore all the Selwyn Districthastoo er. Recently, we have been to the movies… well, we visited a home theatre/museum of interesting things. Our host told us of his lifelong interest in projectors and movies and then we watched “Greyfriars Bobby”. We lunched at The Flaming Rabbit in Lincoln and enjoyed their prompt service andexcellentmenu.
We also enjoyed our MidWinter Lunch at Two Fat
Possums in West Melton, where the meal was delivered to the individual tables for us to help ourselves. A real novelty and one that worked well.
Our Probus meetings are held on the second Tuesday of the month in the Rolleston Community Centre from 9:45am until 12noon from February to November. Our Probus Club has two Walking/ Co ee Groups meeting on a Monday and a Craft/Mah-jong Group, which meets on the first and third Wednesdays of themonthfortwohours.
Our monthly lunches are popular and support di erent restaurants within the Selwyn district.Theseareallwaysthat memberscangettoknoweach other in di erent settings. You are welcome to come along as a visitor for up to three times withnopressuretojoin.
if you are interested in if you in attending a meeting or attending meeting or just turn up.
You
be more then You will welcome! welcome! welcome! welcome!
ROLLESTON CENTRAL PROBUS
By Jill Webb. By Jill Webb. Jill Webb. Jill Webb.
Our second month of winter weather started with a rip and roar, hoping to keep warm and dry, and luckily, we didn't have the flooding to contendwith.
At our June meeting, our speaker Peter (Razor) Reynolds, founder of Moral Compass, was well received. He had a past that turned out to make him into a great person, from army life to businessman and now a councillor for the youth. His skills are second to none. Rob Harley has written a book about Razor’s life, War Zone
Warrior:UrbanLegend.
For July, our guest speaker was Neville Carter, a longtime resident of Southbridge, 52 years with the Southbridge volunteer fire brigade and 50 years on the Southbridge Rugby Club committee. He spoke about his life and experiences and is also the father of All Black #1034, Dan Carter.
Our speaker for August is James Thompson, a beekeeper, and for September, Julian Ordering.
Outings have also been wellsupported, including the MidWinter Xmas Lunch at Lincoln.
Next, we are o behind the scenes at the local Pak’nSave. Out and About didn’t make it to the Timeball because of the weather, but we will go in warmer months. Instead, everyone enjoyed lunch at Robbies. Our bi-monthly SundaymealisatSmoked. If there are folk in the older age group that wants company and outings from time to time, consider joining us for Fun, Friendship, Fellowship. We meet on the third Tuesday ofthemonth.
For more information, For more

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